The Shires, Lee Ann Womack, Billy Bragg & more to play major new UK outdoor country, Americana and roots festival The Long Road

The Long Road, a major new greenfield festival is set to launch in the UK this September. Taking place within the grounds of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire from September 7 – 9, The Long Road will celebrate country, Americana and roots music featuring five stages of live performances, bespoke food events and a wide range of themed outdoor activities.

Curated by Tennessee-born country music specialist and radio presenter Baylen Leonard, the inaugural Long Road event will feature Lee Ann Womack, Billy Bragg, Angaleena Presley, The Shires as well as Music Week coverstar Catherine McGrath and On The Radar stars The Wandering Hearts.

BBC Music Introducing will host their own stage at the festival, which will be fronted by presenter of BBC Radio 2’s weekly country show Bob Harris and will showcase some of the UK’s best unsigned talent.

Alongside its live music offerings, The Long Road will incorporate activities including Moonshine and bourbon tasting, instrument and songwriters’ rounds, lake swimming, a Southern-inspired food & shopping village and more.

Speaking about the event in a statement, The Shires said: “We are very excited to be playing the first Long Road festival. Country music in the UK is starting to really gain momentum and an outdoor festival dedicated to it will be great fun to play.”

The Long Road’s creative director Baylen Leonard added: “Being from Tennessee and having lived in the UK for close to 20 years, I’m thrilled to bring the music and culture of both together in one festival. The dedication and passion of the UK country community is so amazing, we wanted to put together a festival that celebrated the music and lifestyle they love as a thank you to the fans for supporting country music. Whether you're a country fan, an Americana fan, or a fan of great music in general, we wanted a welcoming place where everyone could come together to celebrate. This is a festival for the fans and we’re excited to share it with you.”